Parkinson’s Disease project seeks to start a movement

Professor David Corbin, Consultant Neurologist at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH), pointed out that the aim of the Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Project is to start a movement that will empower Barbadians with information about Parkinson’s disease (PD).

While speaking at the Rotary Club of Barbados West meeting at Bagatelle Great House recently, he indicated, “The Parkinson’s Disease Project is important because there is a need for understanding and also it is critical for caregivers to also get that information and assistance to help those with the condition.

“April 2017 is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. After Alzheimer’s disease, PD is the second most common degenerative disease of the brain. African Americans and Asians are less likely than Caucasians to develop Parkinson’s.”

Professor Corbin indicated that PD normally affects older persons, but there are cases in Barbados where younger people have the disease. They’re approximately 800 persons who have the disorder in Barbados.

He also stated that the causes are unknown. There are well-known persons that have been afflicted with this disease, such as the late Muhammad Ali, professional boxer; and Michael J. Fox, actor.

The Rotary Club of Barbados West stands by its call to help persons in Barbados and representatives indicated that this initiative is important because this condition impacts many and it is important that the public is aware of the disease, warning signs and treatment.

The Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Project ‘Shake It Up Barbados’ seminar on the degenerative disorder will be held at Limegrove Cinemas on Saturday, April 8, 2017 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. To register, the public can call 261-7054. (NB)